GORDON TOLTON

1904 - 2003

Gordon Howard Tolton of Taber, beloved husband of the late Laura Tolton, passed away on Saturday, November 8, 2003 at the age of 99 years.
Gordon was born in the Red River area at Emerson, Manitoba on January 26, 1904, the son of Albert and Mary Tolton. He came to Taber with his family in 1911 where his father owned Pioneer Livery and Feed Stable. Gordon worked for the New York Ranch as a long-line skinner and drove 16 horses at one time. This is where he developed the nickname “skin”. In 1924, he along with his brother Clifford bought land in the Cameron area. They farmed and ranched and remained partners for 52 years. He loved dances and met and married Laura Bertie on January 26, 1973. In 1976 Gordon and Clifford sold the land and retired to Taber. He remained active throughout his life and drove his car until he was 94 years old. Gordon was a determined man who persevered until accomplishing his objectives. He had a remarkable memory of his early experiences and would love to share them with others, loved to socialize, laugh and make others laugh. He spoke fondly of his early years working with his horses and of the many teams and string teams he had in his early life, running the headers and binders. He loved the land, cattle and farm life style and was a good farmer and neighbor.
Gordon is survived by his step-son John (Butch) McKenzie and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife Laura, brothers and sisters Elizabeth (Joseph) Forbes, Errett (Verda) Tolton, Wilbert (Alice) Tolton, Clifford (Ellen) Tolton and Roy (Bertilla) Tolton.
Relatives and friends were invited to meet with the family at the Southland Funeral Chapel. 5006 - 48 Avenue, Taber on Thursday, November 13, 2003 from 12:30 P.M. until 1:30 P.M.
The Funeral Service was held at Knox United Church, 4929 - 50 Avenue, Taber on Thursday, November 13, 2003 at 2:00 P.M. with Reverend Jim Lochhead officiating. Interment followed at the Taber Memorial Garden.
If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Gordon’s name, may be made to the Taber Hospital Foundation (Continuing Care) 4326 - 50 Avenue, Taber, Alberta T1G 1N9.